Rubbernecking is a form of distracted driving that occurs when motorists divert their attention from the road in front of them to look at an accident, arrest, or some other spectacle on or near the road. Because it results in a loss of driver focus, rubbernecking can be as dangerous as texting while driving.
What Are Examples of Rubbernecking?
Let’s be honest: rubbernecking is an instinct stimulated by our curiosity. But whether you’re concerned for other drivers’ well-being, nosy about what’s going on around you, or simply forgetful about your responsibilities as a driver, it’s crucial to remember that taking your eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, can have serious consequences.
Here are some examples of rubbernecking that, at the moment, you may not even realize you’re doing.
Concern For What Happened on the Road
The most classic example of rubbernecking is slowing down to observe a car crash or other roadside incident. Flashing lights from emergency vehicles often draw attention, causing drivers to crane their necks for a better view.
Showing Curiosity
Perhaps you’re driving past someone who’s been pulled over or there’s a car with its hood up on the shoulder of the road. Even something as simple as someone changing a tire can cause passing motorists to slow down and gawk. No matter how innocent or morbid your curiosity, it’s important to remember that diverting your focus from the road to these roadside diversions makes you a distracted driver.
Being Careless
Quirky billboards, eye-catching art installations, or unique buildings near the highway can cause drivers to take their eyes off the road. In areas known for celebrity residents or film shoots, drivers might slow down if they spot a famous face or an ongoing movie production.
Is Rubbernecking Illegal?
While some state laws might apply to traffic obstruction, rubbernecking technically isn’t illegal. Regardless, it’s important to remember that distracted driving, in any form, can make you liable for car crashes and the resulting damages. That said, avoid rubbernecking and treat it the same way you would treat any other dangerous driving behavior — whether legal or not.
Tips to Avoid Rubbernecking
If others around you are slowing down to look at the Lamborghini that rear-ended the Ferrari, don’t become part of the problem. The safer option is to keep these spectacles confined to action flicks that we can watch from the safety of our couches or a movie theater.
Instead, practice some of these tips to avoid rubbernecking.
Keep Your Eyes on The Road
Train yourself to keep your eyes forward and resist the urge to look at distractions. Remind yourself that the reason you’re on the road is to get you and your passengers safely from one place to another.
Practice Safe Driving When Passing By an Incident
Maintain a safe following distance and pay attention to brake lights, as it gives you more time to react if traffic suddenly slows due to rubbernecking. Use your peripheral vision to acknowledge flashing lights or incidents without turning your head.
Implementation of Incident Screens
First responders have begun positioning large screens around crash sites to block views of the accident and eliminate the temptation to look.
3 Reasons Why You Should Avoid Rubbernecking
1. It is Dangerous
Rubbernecking is more than just a bad habit – it’s potentially fatal. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that distracted driving claims about 3,000 lives annually in the United States. When you take your eyes off the road to gawk at an accident or roadside incident, those few seconds of distraction can have life-altering consequences.
2. It is More Likely to Cause Accidents to Occur
When you rubberneck, you’re not just putting yourself at risk — you’re creating a domino effect of endangerment. As you slow down and divert your attention, you’re more likely to brake suddenly or drift into another lane. This creates a ripple effect, forcing other drivers to react quickly to your unpredictable behavior. In the blink of an eye, your curiosity could cause a multi-car pileup, making you much more than an innocent spectator.
3. It Excaberates Traffic
Beyond the safety concerns, rubbernecking is a major contributor to traffic congestion. A single person slowing down to look at an incident can cause a chain reaction, leading to massive traffic jams that can last for hours. This not only wastes time and fuel for countless drivers but also hampers emergency responders trying to reach those who legitimately need help. By resisting the urge to rubberneck, you’re doing your part to keep traffic flowing smoothly and safely for everyone on the road.
What To Do If You Are Involved in A Rubbernecking Accident
If you’ve been involved in an automobile accident of any kind, there are certain steps you can take to keep yourself and those around you safe. In these crucial moments, how you react might also improve your chances of compensation should you decide to pursue legal action.
Here’s what you should do if you’ve been involved in a rubbernecking accident:
Check For Injuries
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If it’s safe, move to the shoulder of the road and call emergency services. Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
Contact the Police
For practical purposes, it is also important to contact local, non-emergency lines. This is because many insurance companies won’t validate claims without a formal police report on file.
Take Note of The Scene
Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any relevant signage, as this documentation may later support a legal case if one is needed.
Exchange Information With The Other Drivers
Exchange contact information, license plate numbers, and insurance details with other involved parties. If possible, get the contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident occur.
Get Medical Help
Even if you feel fine, get checked out to rule out hidden injuries. A medical professional might discover injuries you may not even be aware of.
Notify Your Insurance Provider
Report the accident promptly to your insurance, providing all relevant details, and inquire if your plan covers vehicle repairs and medical treatment.
Contact Esquire Law for Car Accident Law Services
For motorists in Arizona and Utah who have been in rubbernecking accidents, Esquire Law advocates for your full recovery. We assure compassionate and professional legal support and will treat you with the dignity you deserve during this understandably painful situation. We will investigate your case and work with insurance companies to get you maximum compensation from your accident settlement. If necessary, we will pursue legal action and represent you in court to hold those responsible for your accident accountable.
At Esquire, our mission is to uphold justice by maximizing the compensation you’re owed for damages resulting from your rubbernecking accident. We will employ our knowledge, resources, and work ethic to prove negligence and make you financially whole again.